12 Winter Cocktails Full of Cozy, Seasonal Flavors
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As we inch closer to the winter solstice, and the days continue to get shorter, there is nothing like a delicious cocktail to lift our spirits (pun intended). Wintry drinks tend to feature darker spirits like bourbon and whiskey, but this list also includes seasonal spins on lighter, brighter cocktails like margaritas and Moscow mules. Whether you have big plans for holiday gatherings or intend on entering hibernation mode this season, here are some of the best cocktails to shake up this winter.
Una Buena Noche
Jen Causey
Adapted from a recipe by the New York City restaurant Ernesto’s, this refreshing cocktail combines the zesty flavors of tequila and lime with the warmth of honey and ginger syrups. Topping it off with Lambrusco—a sparkling red wine—makes it the perfect cocktail for the holidays.
Champagne Cocktail No. 1
Jen Causey
Take your New Year’s champagne to the next level by mixing it up into a cocktail with raspberries, tangerines, and a splash of Lillet Rosé. The result is a fruity, bright drink that’s worth toasting with at midnight.
Gold Rush
Jen Causey
A pinch of edible golden glitter makes this cocktail perfect for this season’s festivities. Bourbon, pineapple, and lemon are a combination made in heaven—shake until chilled, then top off with Prosecco and a lemon peel garnish to brighten up wintry days.
Bourbon Campari Punch
Christopher Testani
Like the Gold Rush cocktail, you can never go wrong with the combination of bourbon and bright fruits like pomegranate and citrus. Freezing the pomegranate juice in a Bundt pan and serving in a large punch bowl makes for a visually stunning holiday party cocktail.
Cranberry Margarita
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
If bourbon and eggnog aren’t your thing, try this twist on the standard margarita. This cocktail has the classic combination of lime juice, tequila, and a salted rim, but splashes of cranberry juice and orange liqueur add a seasonal touch.
Irish Coffee
A mug of this classic Irish cocktail is the perfect après–ski pick-me-up on chilly winter nights. To kick up the booze and the creaminess, swap the whipped cream for an Irish cream liqueur like Baileys. You can also add a splash of a coffee liqueur, like Kahlua, to double down on the espresso.
Pomegranate Reverse Manhattan
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
The “reverse” element in the name of this drink refers to a ratio of bourbon to vermouth that is switched from a typical Manhattan. This means that it’s less bourbon-y, and the fruity, caramel taste of sweet vermouth is more pronounced. Chilled pomegranate juice keeps it on-theme for the holidays, making this a perfect party or date night cocktail.
Minty Moscow Mule Punch
This punch is a combination between the lime-and-ginger-forward Moscow mule and the refreshingly minty mojito. It’s perfect for a large gathering—just be sure to mix up enough for seconds!
Chocolate Raspberry Cocktail
This impressive date-night cocktail is simple to make and delicious to drink. Add a splash of pomegranate juice and garnish with pomegranate seeds to switch it up for the holiday season.
Classic Amaretto Sour
Carson Downing, Prop Styling: Lexi Juhl, Food Styling: Kelsey Moylan
Beat the winter blues this year by learning how to make this classic cocktail. Amaretto is an Italian liqueur made with steeped almonds and either apricot or peach pits, and it imparts a nutty, sweet flavor. Mixing it with lemon juice and a bit of sugar or simple syrup creates the perfect blend of sweet and sour. For a boozier variation, add a splash of bourbon.
Classic Old Fashioned
Another staple cocktail, Old Fashioneds are the perfect cozy, spicy drink for winter. Since there are so few ingredients, a good quality bourbon is crucial for the most luscious, easy-drinking result. An orange peel or cocktail cherry is the most common garnish, but feel free to add a cinnamon stick or even some cranberries for a wintry twist.
Mulled Wine
Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel
What could be cozier than a warm mug of mulled wine by the fire on a cold night? This particular recipe calls for a dry, medium-bodied red wine, as well as nutmeg, cinnamon, and whole cloves to create a warm and spicy flavor. If you find it to be too dry or spicy, add a splash of maple syrup to kick up the sweetness.
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